HARRISBURG - As part of its ongoing commitment to workforce development, the PA Chamber Educational Foundation will host a Workforce Summit on Wednesday, May 18 at Hershey Lodge where Executive Producer and TV Host Mike Rowe will be the keynote speaker. The summit will kick off a meaningful discussion on how Pennsylvania’s business community can change the message and perception of pursuing a career in the skilled trades. Rowe’s address will speak to the nation’s widening skills gap and will focus on how jobs in the skilled trades will ensure a better economic future.

“Pennsylvania’s diverse employment needs across a wide range of industries provide ample job opportunities,” said PA Chamber President Gene Barr. “The Commonwealth has long been touted for its strong work ethic. However, the existing skills gap within our workforce makes it difficult for employers to find qualified job candidates. This is due to, among other things, a lack of job readiness in critical growing industries and a general lack of knowledge about family-sustaining career opportunities that don’t require a college degree. We’re thrilled to welcome Mike Rowe to discuss ways to strengthen workforce development programs and meet the needs of Pennsylvania’s changing workforce.”

In addition to Rowe’s address, Susquehanna Polling & Research President James Lee will unveil the results of the 2016 Pennsylvania Workforce Development Survey. The PA Chamber Educational Foundation partnered with Susquehanna Polling & Research to gauge how difficult it is for businesses to hire and retain the qualified talent they need to sustain and grow their business. The event will also feature a presentation by Keystone Technical Institute President and CEO David Snyder, who will discuss matching business’ needs with today’s students.

Sordoni Construction will serve as the event’s Exclusive Platinum Sponsor. The program is also being supported by four Gold Sponsors; two Founding Partners, two Bronze Sponsors and four Student Host Sponsors. For additional sponsorship information and a detailed agenda, visit the PA Chamber’s website.

Media outlets interested in covering the event must pre-register by e-mailing PA Chamber Manager of Communications Tricia Harris at tharris@pachamber.org. All credentialed media outlets in attendance are being asked to consider the following guidelines:

MEDIA COVERAGE REQUIREMENTS

Only traditional “pen and paper” press coverage of Mike Rowe’s remarks is permitted. Audio and video recording and still photography are prohibited. Personal cameras, cell phone cameras and all recording devices must be turned off during the keynote address.

Only pre-approved, credentialed media are permitted to cover the event. PA Chamber media credentials will be distributed on-site at the Hershey Lodge on the morning of the event. Both PA Chamber media credentials and media outlet credentials must be visible to gain entry to the event. Media outlets interested in covering the event need to register by Friday, May 13. The PA Chamber will confirm credentialed status by Tuesday, May 17.

Any questions on the aforementioned details should be directed to PA Chamber Manager of Communications Tricia Harris at tharris@pachamber.org or 717 720-5447.

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The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry Educational Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) organization created to fund timely and insightful research and educational programs that will positively impact Pennsylvania's economic future and enhance the quality of life for all Pennsylvanians.

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is the state's largest broad-based business association, with its statewide membership comprising businesses of all sizes and across all industry sectors. The PA Chamber is The Statewide Voice of BusinessTM.